What You Can Do in College Today to Make the Degree Pay Off Tomorrow

In today's tough economy, employment trends are constantly shifting. The job market in many industries is highly competitive and educational institutions cannot guarantee its graduates employment. Often, new college grads and experienced veterans-victims of downsizing-are vying for the same jobs. It's more important than ever to make your cover letter and resume stand out from others in the pile.

Understand that a large company could have several positions open at one time. Going through applicants, scheduling/conducting first and second interviews, checking references, negotiating salaries and other HR-related tasks takes a lot of time. Just like literary agents work through the slush pile of submissions, companies must weed through piles of resumes. There could be dozens of qualified people applying, but it is only feasible to interview a small number.

Getting to the top of the pile is crucial to successful job hunting. Unfortunately, too many recent college graduates learn this too late. It is a mistake to think that a degree alone will help you land a job. Plan ahead and make the most of your educational experience, in and out of the classroom.

Meet alumni.

Get involved with your school's alumni association in any way you can. Student representatives serve on many alumni boards; try to get elected to yours. Look for alumni mentoring opportunities your college may offer. Especially during your senior year, attend alumni networking events. Loyal alumni love to help out their own.

Volunteer.

Don't simply join service-related organizations; become deeply involved. Dedicate yourself to a cause. You will not only feel wonderful about yourself, but you will no doubt develop passion for a cause, learn organizational skills and hone qualities that employers are looking for. A hidden bonus of community involvement is networking. Many large companies and/or very well connected and respected people volunteer on boards. You never know who you will meet-and impress.

Do more than one internship.

Many majors require fieldwork experience or an internship. For some, it is optional. No matter what, do one. If possible, do more than one. And, if possible, do an internship abroad or in a major city. Be picky about internships, too. Don't commit to a semester's worth of filing. Find a position that truly offers you a chance to get a taste of your chosen career. Learn the ropes, meet people, make connections. Many, many college students start their careers at the very company at which they interned.

Work on campus.

Campus jobs are a great way to earn extra money-and to become more closely acquainted with college staff and faculty you may otherwise not spend much time with. The end result of a job well done could mean a glowing letter of recommendation and, maybe a connection or two.Working on campus also increases your profile. If professors and staff know you, you could be top of mind when opportunities arise.

Become a campus leader.

Student government and other larger campus organization aren't just a great way to meet people, but also a fantastic way to develop leadership and organizational skills. Major student organizations are often responsible for managing the student activity budget, running campus programming, allocating funds to smaller student groups and more. Planning, budgeting and even learning Robert's Rules of Order are just some of the skills learned as a student leader.

A final word of advice.

Not getting a call about a job you've applied for does not necessarily mean you are not qualified. You may have the right degree, the right amount of experience. But, it could mean the applicant pool was very larger and others, for one reason or another, floated to the top of the pile. Be patient and don't take rejection personally.

I was in the running for a healthcare marketing writer position. I was told 99 people applied for the position. Only 12, including me, were interviewed. Five, also including me, were called back for a second interview. Two people, both with previous healthcare experience, were hired. Knowing what I was up against, I am quite proud how far I made it.

Focus on good grades, yes. But, do everything you possibly can while in college to make your resume really shine.